Misawa trash service changes schedule Published March 31, 2010 By Staff Sgt. Chad Strohmeyer 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- Starting April 1, Misawa Air Base residents will now be required to move their trash and recycling containers to the curb no later than 8 a.m. on their specific pickup day. The refuse change is part of a transitional period while the new contract is being negotiated that will affect bases Air Force wide, said Master Sgt. Troy Perry, 35th Civil Engineer Squadron NCOIC of work order support section. "This change is primarily being made because of financial reasons and also to encourage people to recycle more," said Sergeant Perry. "Annually, Misawa spends more than $2 million for the current refuse contract. Although the new contract will be more expensive, it will drastically save money down the road. In addition to saving money, the contract also adjusts the date and time of pickup. Trash pickup is going to one day a week instead of two. Trash and recyclables must be in plastic bags, and all bags must be placed in the container. Residents will also be required to retrieve their trash containers at the end of the day. "Everyone on base should have already received their new trash can," Sergeant Perry said. "If anyone requires additional recycle containers, the Self Help Store provides indoor and outdoor containers." With Misawa Air Base residents limited to only one trash can, recycling becomes even more important. "We strongly encourage residents to start recycling, said Sergeant Perry. "It saves money and it's great for the economy." The new pickup schedule is: Base housing: · Group A (North of Gettysburg Road) - Trash and recyclables: Monday - Bulk pick up: First Tuesday of the month · Group B (South of Gettysburg Road) - Trash and recyclables: Wednesday - Bulk pick up: Third Tuesday of the month · Group C (North Area) - Trash and recyclables: Friday - Bulk pick up: First Thursday of the month Towers: · Trash: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday · Recyclables: Wednesday · Bulk pick up - Main base: Second and Fourth Tuesday - North area: Second and Fourth Thursday - No change to pick up location